On her first visit to Forward Stride, she was so weak she could barely sit on the horse that the instructor brought out for her. As the weeks progressed, so did Emily. She became stronger and soon was able to sit on the horse throughout the entire lesson. Emily began eating again and sleeping through the night, a general improvement all the way around.

Her family thrived too. Her fears had transferred to a focus on the horse and the lesson. She no longer worried about the chemo treatments. Emily ... ...

By, Susan Seligman

Working in conjunction with Walter Reed Army hospital and North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA) trained therapeutic riding instructor Mary Jo Beckham, the Caisson horses have been put into service as therapy horses. The effort has gained national attention and a new lease on life for wounded soldiers returning from Iraq.

"The therapeutic riding program has brought out Natasha", says Mary Jo Beckham. "Here's a photo of the first day of the program. Natasha ... ...